Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a severe acute respiratory syndrome, and a major, worldwide public health concern. Patients diagnosed with cancer are considered a particularly vulnerable population because of their compromised immune system (i.e., they are prone to developing COVID-19 symptoms). Moreover, because oncology patients are in a heightened, immunocompromised state and many possess numerous comorbid conditions, their outcomes are also imperiled.
While ovarian cancer and COVID-19 are distinct entities involving different organs, both diseases have similar molecular and cellular characteristics, which further exacerbate patient outcomes. Interestingly, COVID-19-related hospitalizations and deaths are reportedly lower in women than in men, but comorbidities associated with ovarian cancer may increase the risk of developing COVID-19 in women. For example, women who are 50-60 years of age are not only at greater risk of developing ovarian cancer, but also COVID-19. Accordingly, one might assert that the development of ovarian cancer significantly contributes to the development of COVID-19. However, the influence of COVID-19 on ovarian cancer remains indeterminate and further review of the relationship among patient comorbidities, ovarian cancer and COVID-19 infection are warranted.
About Women’s Cancer Research Foundation The Women’s Cancer Research Foundation (WCRF) is one of Southern California’s and the nation’s most active research organizations for female cancers. We are dedicated to serving the interests of patients, families, and friends affected by women’s cancers. WCRF partners with physician-scientists nationally to make differences in women’s lives by offering hope, strength, and progress.
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